MDF finishes

[sash]

I am making some toy boxes for my nephews and don't want the cost to blow out too much - would like to fill the boxes with toys! Anyway, I am wanting to put a finish on the MDF that will make them look special. Has anyone got any suggestions?

Thankyou
Sash

[journeyman Mick]

Being toy boxes, I think a multi colour paint job would do the trick, possibly even with some stencilled patterns applied. Gloss Acrylics would work well and be safe. You could try all your local paint suppliers as they often have tins of paint that have been mistinted selling cheap.

Mick

[alf t]

Toy Shops have stick-on coloured letters and animals etc. Why not put their names on them higgildy piggildy !!!!

Alf

[soundman]

make sure to use a good undercoat or sealer first particularly on any end grain.

[behindblueeyes]

Wow what a number of options you have!!

1) Jennifer Bennel Magic effects - all sorts of effects are possible - including: Scumble, metallic glazes, crackling, etc all to give the boxes a "Harry Potter" type feel. Mixed with some stencils of suns, moons, stars.

2) There is a paint out called "wonderwalls" from Dulux that you can actually stick magnets to. Could be a bit of fun for the kids.

3) Some varnish stains are MDF friendly and are available in a wide range of colours.

4) Gloss acrylics - are not that high in gloss as enamels, bt would do the job. You can actually get little tins (100ml, 250ml) for those little jobs. "Dabs" is one such range.

Have fun - would be a great little job. I am just a little concerned at your choice of substrate, given the negative press that MDF can get.